The Federal Cabinet of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) Cabinet convened on 17th March for the first Joint Cabinet Meeting of 2025, reinforcing their commitment to collaboration and national development. The high-level meeting, held at the Park Hyatt in St. Kitts, centred on key national priorities, including economic diversification, climate resilience, national security, and enhanced inter-island cooperation.
Premier of Nevis, Mark Brantley, opened the discussions by underscoring the vital role of ongoing dialogue between the two administrations. “Nothing in this world is ever achieved without the ability to communicate. Dialogue is important when there are problems, but even in good times, dialogue remains essential. It is through open discussion that we build understanding, foster cooperation, and ensure that we are working in the best interests of all our people.”
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew echoed this sentiment, stating that while political differences will always exist, they should not hinder collaboration on critical issues. “It is obvious that there would always be some level of political differences, but we don’t always have to disagree on everything. There are some things that really can bring us together as a people.” He highlighted crime reduction as an example of effective joint efforts, noting that both administrations had committed to a unified, all-of-society approach, which has already yielded positive results.
Among the priority topics discussed was the development of geothermal energy, a transformative initiative that has attracted international interest and investment. Prime Minister Drew emphasised the project’s potential to reshape the Federation’s economic landscape by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, lowering energy costs, and opening new avenues for economic growth. “The geothermal project has the potential to transform St. Kitts and Nevis. The IMF has acknowledged that this initiative could be a game-changer, even reducing our dependence on the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme if we choose to.”
Economic diversification also featured prominently on the agenda, with discussions focusing on reducing reliance on CBI revenue by expanding other industries, including renewable energy, agriculture, and digital finance. “The goal is not to discard CBI,” Prime Minister Drew explained, “but to ensure that our economy is so diversified that our vulnerabilities are decreased, and our resilience is increased.”
National security remained a key area of focus, with both administrations reaffirming their dedication to reducing crime and ensuring public safety. The leaders agreed that sustained inter-island collaboration would be vital in addressing security concerns effectively.
The Joint Cabinet Meeting served as a demonstration of the Federation’s ongoing efforts to build a more resilient and unified nation. As the meeting concluded, both leaders expressed confidence that through regular engagement and collaboration, St. Kitts and Nevis would continue on a path of progress and prosperity.
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